You’re a Therapist Now… But Where Are the Clients?
Have you ever experienced that tingling sensation just before falling asleep? Or found yourself contemplating random thoughts about life or the future at 1 AM? If yes, same here ! Many professionals, particularly those entering the field of Mental Health, often grapple with these reflections. Once we achieve one goal, it seems we immediately turn our focus to the next one. So, how can we learn to live in the moment? That’s a topic for another time or another blog post. Today, let’s address a significant challenge that many Mental Health Professionals encounter after graduation -
“How, when, and where can we find clients?”
So, are you ready to take in some knowledge beyond your classroom?
1. Social Media Presence
With the rise of various social media apps, I believe it’s essential for us to be present everywhere as prospective Mental Health Professionals. So creating dedicated professional accounts on platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, TopMate, Practo, Talkspace, and BetterHelp are some of the best ones. Being active on multiple platforms increases your visibility to potential clients. For those, like me, who are uncertain about launching a personal website just yet, this serves as a great alternative.
2. Networking (Both Online and Offline)
Both LinkedIn and your interpersonal/social skills are essential for success in this field. Stay alert and open to various opportunities that may come your way. Aim to join as many psychology groups as possible on LinkedIn, Instagram, and WhatsApp (ZenCircle is a great, active WhatsApp community powered by Zensible). You never know where a potential client referral might come from.
Additionally, when it comes to offline networking, set aside some budget to attend quality psychology and mental health events (Again, Zensible conducts many online and offline events, perfect for aspiring and practicing therapists). Meeting people face-to-face fosters genuine connections and helps you find others with similar interests. Make sure to establish your presence at both online and offline events and networking platforms.
3. Learn As Much As You Can
While a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree are essential for career development, there is more to consider if you want to stand out to your clients during sessions. Pursuing certificate courses, online diploma programs, or gaining knowledge in a specific therapeutic modality can be a significant advantage. Some well-known websites for online learning include Coursera, FutureLearn, Udemy, and Cognizavest.
If you want to learn practical skills, but are not worried about certifications, check out Zensible’s webinar recordings. Subscribe to keep learning.
4. Client Feedback and Testimonials
This is likely a familiar practice for all Master’s students currently participating in pro bono therapy sessions. While you strive to become a better therapist for your clients each day, it’s also important to understand their feelings about the therapeutic process and your role as a therapist. This is where client testimonials and genuine feedback come into play. The more testimonials you receive during your early practice sessions, the better it will be for your future practice. Additionally, positive feedback can instill reassurance and confidence in prospective clients about you and your work and constructive criticisms can help improve your skills.
5. Affordable Therapy Sessions
This might be difficult for many of us to accept, but starting small can often be a wise approach. At the beginning of your practice, you have a couple of options for pricing your therapy services. One option is to lower your prices for everyone, which could help you attract a decent number of clients. Alternatively, you could establish different price tiers for working professionals and students, ensuring that your fees do not significantly impact your finances while still allowing you to maintain a reasonable standard of living after graduation.
Growing as a therapist while building your therapeutic practice can feel overwhelming at first. However, with the right mindset and helpful tips, it can become manageable. Be sure to save this post for when you're ready to implement these strategies! We would love to hear if these tips work for you.
Wishing all the best to the upcoming mental health professionals, see you on the other side!
